Summertime and the hours before and after school are risk points for all kids, particularly for children and youth whose families can’t afford enrollment in camp, sports, arts, and other enrichment activities that keep youth engaged, safe, and learning. Along with our traditional summer camp and Before & After School Enrichment programs, there is an array of grant- and donor-funded programs specifically designed to support the particular needs of youth who have fewer options and are especially subject to falling behind.
Just as important as providing safe out-of-school time programs to all youth, is ensuring a sense of belonging within a supportive, caring community. That's why all enrolled families in Y Out-of-School Time programs automatically receive a Y family membership to stay active, build strength, enjoy healthy family fun, and connect with others! This membership continues annually at no cost, even during school holidays and summer months, provided families re-enroll in our program each year.
For more information on how you or your organization can get involved with our programs, please contact Donald Eaddy at donaldeaddy@ymaryland.org.
Y Out-of-School Time Programs
New Horizons II
New Horizons II is a workforce development program serving youth and young adults ages 14-24 who are experiencing housing insecurity. The program is designed to give youth a safe and supportive place to be year-round; prevent summer learning loss, increase graduation rates, equip youth with tools to obtain employment, build character, and provide employment opportunities.
During the five-week summer, participants spend their mornings receiving academic support and developing life skills, such as how to apply for college, look for a job, and deal with stress. Their afternoons are spent in real-world job placement, which includes a stipend. The Y also helps make sure that students have basic needs taken care of so they can arrive at work feeling confident and cared for.
This short video provides an inspiring closer look at the experience.
During the school year, young people meet every second Saturday of the month to receive academic support, develop life skills, and more.
Next Generation Scholars
The Next Generation Scholars (NGS) of Maryland Program is a college and career readiness access program established by the Maryland General Assembly in 2016 that supports low-income students in high-poverty school systems by providing access to postsecondary educational opportunities. NGS programs provide a cohort-based model of support, mentoring, and college guidance for first-generation students. Cohorts are identified as early as 8th grade and receive support through high school graduation and into college.
The Y in Central Maryland provides NGS support for students attending various Y Community Schools.
After School Enrichment
Located in some of the city’s most challenged neighborhoods, these Y after school enrichment programs are intended to give kids the safety and support needed to stay positive and engaged during the critical after school hours. Attended by more than 1,000 students in schools, Y Centers and sites, youth receive academic and homework support, participate in enrichment clubs, go on field trips and interact with community leaders. Academics focused on reading, writing and math, are taught by certified teachers. The Y works with multiple collaborators to provide the enrichment component of the program such as art instruction, dance, sports, and perhaps most importantly, the message that they are loved and cared for.
Y Achievers
Y Achievers prepares young people with experiences, tools, mentors, and opportunities for a productive and meaningful life beyond school. The program is available after school at the Weinberg Y in Waverly for middle school students. Program activities include project-based enrichment in areas including academic and wellness skills, college and career readiness, life skills, STEM, servant leadership, tutoring help/school project time with adult guidance and support, and a nutritious dinner. Other activities include:
- Fun and educational field trips
- Bi-monthly youth development classes
- Social etiquette classes
- Parent nights
Locations
Y Out-of-School Time programs are located in over 15 elementary and middle schools in Baltimore City and Harford County.